High Temperature Research Centre Project Secures Land at Ansty Park

Posted on Tuesday 10th December 2013

The University of Birmingham and Rolls-Royce joint collaboration to establish a High Temperature Research Centre (HTRC) took a significant step forward today confirming the Centre is to be built at Ansty Business Park, Coventry after securing land at the site. This follows the Centre’s announcement by Chancellor George Osborne in October 2012.

The 5,800 sqm Centre is funded through a £40m investment by Rolls-Royce, matched by a £20m government grant through the Higher Education Funding Council for England’s (HEFCE) UK Research Partnership Investment Fund (UKRPIF) and construction is due to start in Spring 2014.

The Centre will be a unique casting, design, simulation and advanced manufacturing research facility and will focus initially on the key design and manufacturing aspects of investment casting.

Image: HTRC Architectural Concept

The project continues to strengthen the relationship between the University of Birmingham and Rolls-Royce, and this latest location announcement offers the opportunity for both organisations to build upon their existing relationship with the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) also located at the Ansty Park.

The successful land acquisition was made possible through the approval of the Collaboration Agreement in August 2013, by the University of Birmingham and Rolls-Royce, further demonstrating both organisations full commitment to the success of the project.

Professor David Eastwood, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Birmingham said:

“Securing the land at Ansty Park is a key milestone in the establishment of an exciting and innovative advanced manufacturing facility. It will not only greatly enrich the University’s outstanding research in this sector, but also bring enormous benefits to manufacturers in the region.”

Gareth Davies, Turbines Executive Vice President said:

“Rolls-Royce continues to invest in world class technology to deliver our promises to our customers. The High Temperature Research Centre will enable step changes in Turbines technology, which play a critical role in jet engine performance.”

For further information or image request, please contact:

Tim Yates, Business Engagement, Marketing and Communications Manager, The University of Birmingham on +44 (0)121 414 8635, email: t.yates.1@bham.ac.uk